A problem High Wycombe multi-storey car park could be permanently closed and demolished under new plans unveiled by Buckinghamshire Council.

The Easton Street Multi-Storey Car Park, a 12-storey concrete structure built in the 1960s, has been described by council officers as having reached the end of its operational life due to structural deterioration, ongoing anti-social behaviour and financial losses.

A report due to be considered by Cabinet recommends closing the car park by March 2026 and approving £1.75 million to fund its demolition.

Upper floors of the building, levels six to 12, have already been shut on safety grounds, along with the lifts. Recent inspections identified structural defects including failing masonry and risks associated with falling debris.

According to the report, fully restoring the car park would cost more than £3 million. Officers say that level of investment cannot be justified given the site’s limited use and income potential.

Even with six floors still operating, occupancy levels stand at around 64 per cent. The car park is forecast to record a loss of approximately £253,000 in the 2025/26 financial year.

Anti-social behaviour has also been cited as a persistent problem, with reports of vandalism and intimidation.

Officers argue that continuing to operate the site would expose the authority to further maintenance liabilities and financial risk. Instead, they say demolition offers an opportunity to remove an ageing liability while unlocking regeneration potential.

The Easton Street site has been identified as a key location within the council’s wider High Wycombe regeneration strategy. Once cleared, the land could be marketed for mixed-use development.

Officials say nearby car parks have enough spare capacity to accommodate displaced drivers. Swan Car Park is currently operating at around 55 per cent capacity, while Railway Place Car Park is running at roughly 60 per cent, leaving what the council describes as sufficient “latent capacity”.

It said in the report: “The multistorey car park comprises 507 parking bays, including 494 standard bays, 9 designated disabled bays, and 4 electric vehicle charging bays.

“Given the age and condition of the structure, the council has been carefully managing the gradual decline of the asset over several years. However, the asset has now reached the stage where a long-term decision about its future is required.”

If approved, work would begin shortly after the Cabinet decision, with demolition expected to start in late spring or early summer 2026.

A communications strategy will be rolled out ahead of closure to inform residents, businesses and regular users of the car park. Cabinet members are set to make a final decision later this month.